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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
On average, American homeowners devote 55% of their energy usage to heating and cooling their home, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Spring Valley Lake's hot summer weather probably mean that your energy bill is higher during the warmer months. The average resident spends $180 a month cooling their home.
Our guide to Spring Valley Lake's top HVAC companies can help you save money by getting your HVAC system installed, repaired or replaced for a fair price by a skilled worker.
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Today's Homeowner looks at dozens of datapoints on hvac companies to come up with our data-driven rankings. It's not possible for a company to pay for preferential treatment in our rankings. We look at the following key factors in determining who should top our list:
A malfunctioning or aging HVAC system probably needs professional attention from a technician who can make fixes or install a new unit. Watch out for these common signs that your HVAC needs service:
If you notice any of the above, have a local HVAC technician inspect your system. They can pinpoint problems and let you know whether repair or full HVAC replacement is required.
What you pay for HVAC installation or maintenance varies based on your system style. Common HVAC unit styles include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary depending on the particular service needed. HVAC systems are complicated and may require different kinds of maintenance. Prices for some common services are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,890-$4,817 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,829-$7,054 | |
Heat Pump | $2,965-$30,211 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $248-$414 |
Fixing your HVAC by repairing or replacing parts when needed is important, but can be expensive. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to reduce gradual wear and tear on your system.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $62-$165 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,241-$3,722 | |
Thermostat Repair | $83-$207 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $397-$992 |
Knowing the indicators of a good HVAC company is important. A properly licensed contractor with the right experience will give you confidence that they can maintain your HVAC system properly, providing you with effective air conditioning and heating in your home.
Request estimates from at least three HVAC companies. Describe your issues and ask if technicians can inspect your system in person. Review each contractor's diagnoses, recommended solutions, estimated cost, warranties, and timelines. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment before work.
Look for an HVAC company that employs skilled technicians with the necessary training and licenses. In all states, HVAC contractors need to obtain a Section 608 Technician Certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This certification is mandatory for any individual who helps "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." Contractors must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on what kind of equipment they intend to work with) to be certified by the EPA. All other licensing requirements are handled at the state level.
In California, HVAC contractors must be licensed by the Department of Consumer Affairs Contractors State License Board (CSLB). HVAC contractors are considered specialty contractors by the CSLB. All contractors are required to have four years of experience and to be bonded. Contractors with employees must also meet insurance requirements. You should also check a provider's reviews and complaints with organizations such as Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Choose a provider with glowing reviews and stories of positive service experiences.
Always make sure you know the details of a planned project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should detail which parts need replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test your system after repairs are done to ensure that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC, have the provider describe the new features, brand, model, estimated installation time, and energy efficiency. Before work starts, ask how your provider plans to accurately size the unit for your home and how much it will cost.
A reputable HVAC company will stand behind its repair services and equipment installations with a warranty. The longer and more comprehensive the coverage terms, the better. Carefully review the fine print for each contractor and choose the provider that offers the greatest protection within your budget.
Always get estimates for HVAC service in writing before committing to a provider. An itemized quote should cover both labor and materials. Make sure you agree to all terms before signing a contract.
Normally, your HVAC system should be inspected twice a year. After an inspection, your HVAC technician will tell you what, if any, services are required. You should also call a technician if you start to notice any issues, such as strange noises, unusual smells, or leaks. If your home has ductwork, it should be serviced every few years.
The best times of the year to have your HVAC system inspected are during the spring and fall. Technicians are generally less busy during these times, which makes it easier to get an appointment. This also ensures that your system is ready for the summer and winter, when it typically sees the most use.
You can save energy during the summer by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to keep your home cool. Set your thermostat as close to the outside temperature as you comfortably can, and try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any door or window leaks to help keep cool air in. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
It takes roughly one to three days to have an HVAC system installed or replaced. If you only need an air conditioning unit or a furnace, this might take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. This timeline can be determined by the size of your house, how easily accessible your system is, and any issues your technician runs into.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you should look for a furnace that's between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Spring Valley Lake, you may be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also want to purchase an air conditioning unit with between 2.5 and 5 tons of capacity. In Spring Valley Lake, you'll likely need a unit on the higher end of this range. Generally, if your home is larger than 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window air conditioning units.
Usually, HVAC financing is through a third-party lender. If your HVAC company doesn't have financing options, you could consider taking out your own loan. Be sure to talk to a financial advisor and your HVAC company to determine what options are available and appropriate for your situation.
There are several ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: